Ponitz Center

Hundreds of people come through the doors every single day. Seats are always full. There’s security, but no bouncers, and everyone is welcome. 

No – it’s not the next big dance club – it’s the House of Bread. Located on the near west side, and nestled in the neighborhood near a park, the river, and other partnering social service agencies, sits the small, welcoming destination. They serve a free, nutritious meal to approximately 230 men, women and children 365 days a year. Eight to 12 volunteers work the front lines everyday, as they help prepare and serve those in need of a meal.

With food insecurity and challenging times for many in our community, House of Bread is a long-time area resource offering a simple, yet vital service – lunch. On Saturday, August 6, you can give back to this organization that has given to so many in our community by attending the House of Bread gala.



While it’s known as “the gala,” the subtitle is a “casual gathering of friends.” Executive Director Melodie Bennett shares, “Just like our mission, we keep our gala simple. We serve dinner buffet style, so our guests continue to enjoy conversation while standing in line for dinner.”

While every year guests learn something knew about the House of Bread and get fabulous deals on generously donated silent auction prizes (trips! packages! tickets! art! more!), this year the House of Bread is pleased to welcome Ambassador Tony Hall as the keynote speaker. Ambassador Hall (bio) has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize three times, and he is well-respected as a leading authority on programs to serve the poor and hungry, and ways to move people out of homelessness. For an organization that dedicates itself to being open daily and meeting the needs of those who would otherwise go hungry, this is a perfect fit. Knowing what a powerful message he conveys, Bennett says, “I’m very excited that our group of supporters will get to hear Tony Hall speak about his work in preventing hunger!”

While the mission is vital for the community, and the event is simple in its approach, there’s certainly great fun to be had. Lisa Stokely volunteers to lead the silent auction committee, and every year works with generous organizations and individuals to put together fabulous packages. Stokely provides some of the highlights of the auction, “Once again, the generosity of our community has reached new heights. We have so many wonderful items that we created sections this year. Bidders can shop through the entertainment section, offering concert tickets, theatre tickets and more. In the sports section there are opportunities to get to all the hottest games in town, including a private suite at Fifth Third Field for 14 guests. In the artwork section we offer original artworks by renowned Dayton artists, including Riverscape artist, Amy Deal, acrylic painter, Ron Rollins, and a sculpture in a series created by famed sculptor, Terry Welker. In our get-away section, one generous donor has given HOB incredible luxury vacation weeks for the high bidders to enjoy the US Virgin Islands, Marriott Grande Vista Resort in Orlando, and a cozy cabin in Branson, Missouri.” There’s truly something for everyone at a great price for a great cause, and I’m told that access to the silent auction itself is well worth the price of admission!

But – if you were looking for a more exclusive, club experience – they’ve got that for you, too! Bennett shares, “We started what we call Club 365, which is a request to our supporters to make a financial gift of $365 at our Gala.  It’s the idea of giving $1 a day for us to be open and serving during the next year.” (Note: While Club 365 is a special opportunity, no donations above the price of admission are required at the event.)

All donations from the event – ticket sales, silent auction bids and donations to join Club 365 – support the important mission of House of Bread. Mark your calendar and get your tickets now for this simple event that makes a monumental impact on our community, and will leave a lasting impact on you as well.

HOW TO GO: 

House of Bread Gala… a casual gathering of friends

Saturday, August 6
Sinclair Building 12
6pm-10pm

$75 per person
$600 per table
$2,500 sponsorship level


Appetizers, Music, Silent Auction, Dinner, Cash Bar, Networking  Tony Hall, Keynote Speaker
Supports their mission to serve a hot, nutritious lunchtime meal every day of the year to anyone in need!Tickets available until August 3, 2016. Buy your tickets today!